Propagating by rhizome is the easiest way to get more ferns. First, locate the fern's crown—this is where the fronds meet in the middle. Then, using a clean knife, cut through it.

As a single fern grows, the rhizome may break and produce new fronds. Over time, this creates a colony of ferns. In the spring, new fronds, called fiddleheads, unroll as they grow.

Ferns that spread from an underground root (rhizome) are even easier to propagate. Dig up the parent fern. There will be a spreading rhizome. Cut the rhizome where there is at least one frond ...

A • There’s no problem with cutting back Boston ferns in fall versus spring, though you’ll be staring at a plant with a crew cut for several weeks until new growth occurs. On the other hand ...